Delighted to be back

Paul Robinson relished being back in the thick of the action after his surprise return in Saturday's FA Cup draw with Manchester City.

After complications following a back operation had left Robinson with a blood clot on his lung, the popular stopper has had a lengthy road to recovery.

The former England man returned to action in Saturday's 1-1 draw after 13 months on the sidelines, and more than played his part as Rovers earned a replay against Manchester City.

Speaking to Radio Rovers after the game, Robinson said: "The manager told me midweek that he was thinking about putting me back in. How did I feel? Was I ready? Needless to say I told him yes straight away.

"I was more than ready, I've worked really hard the last three months or so and I got my reward today. I'm just delighted to be back on the pitch.

"There were no nerves at all, I was just looking forward to getting out.

"I think with everything that has happened to me in the last 12-14 months or so it has put a perspective on things, and I think I'm a better person for it and it is making me a lot more relaxed playing as well.

"It is just a shame we don't get anything for it, a point or something would have been nice.

"But no, it was a good performance today, you can't take anything away from the boys. We knew it was going to be difficult whatever they put out, and they put out a good team.

"They didn't want a replay, as much as we didn't want a replay, but the way the game panned out we had chances to win the game.

"There are a lot of people in blue and white shirts who can be very proud of themselves."

Will Robbo make his first league start this Saturday against Doncaster? Tickets are currently on open sale priced from £15 Adults, £10 Seniors and £5 Under-16s. Book online today at www.onerovers.co.uk